The objective of the IMO’s Revised Recommendations is to enhance safety during enclosed space entry, reduce persistent fatalities, and strengthen the process of hazard identification, risk assessment, and crew empowerment. These Recommendations may be applied to all ship types and provide guidance for ship operators, crew, port workers, and other shore personnel involved in operations on board.
The IMO recognizes that many enclosed space accidents stem from a failure to systematically identify hazards, assess risks, and implement appropriate entry procedures. Investigations further highlight that the complex structural arrangements of certain spaces can hinder ventilation, illumination, and safe movement.
Organizational leadership ashore and on board plays a critical role, particularly in empowering personnel to stop unsafe operations and make informed decisions to prevent accidents. Recent casualty trends underscore the ongoing need for improved risk assessment practices and increased awareness of CO2-related hazards.
The IMO Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC 10) developed amendments to Resolution A.1050(27) in 2024 to combat the continued loss of life resultant from the hazards of enclosed space entry. These revisions were adopted by the 110th session of the Maritime Safety Committee on 27 June 2025 through Resolution MSC.581(110), and finally endorsed by the 34th Assembly on 3 December 2025, which formally revoked A.1050(27).
The new resolution introduces a more comprehensive and structured approach to enclosed space entry, including new definitions, strengthened atmospheric testing requirements, enhanced responsibilities toward shore personnel, and updated emergency preparedness measures.